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National Bowel Cancer Screening Program
Bowel cancer is one of the most common cancers impacting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and the risk increases as you get older.
But here’s the good news: if found early, over 90% of bowel cancers can be successfully treated.
Testing is simple, private and free. If you’re between 45 and 49, you can order your free kit.
All it takes is filling out a form via indigenousbowelscreen.com.au, calling 1800 627 701, or asking your health worker.
If you are between 50 and 74, a free kit is mailed directly to you every two years.
Make sure your address is up to date with Medicare. You can update it through your myGov account under Medicare, by using the Medicare Express Plus mobile app, or by calling Medicare on 132 011.
Keep healthy and strong for yourself, your family, and your community. Don’t put off the chance to save your life – find out more today.
Screen for Bowel Cancer
Bowel cancer can develop without any signs or symptoms, which is why regular screening matters. Completing your free test every two years from age 45 is an important way to stay healthy and strong.
Why it matters:
• Bowel cancer is one of the most common cancers in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
• Screening can detect early changes before symptoms appear
• Over 90% of bowel cancers can be treated successfully if found early
Learn more about the program and how to do the test at cancer.org.au.
Che Cockatoo-Collins. Bowel Cancer Screening Could Save Your Life
In this episode of Stars and Stories, MJ is joined by AFL legend Che Cockatoo-Collins to talk about the importance of bowel cancer screening.
Che shares a powerful reminder: “Encourage your loved ones, friends, and family aged 45 – 74 to stay healthy and strong by screening for bowel cancer every two years.”
If you’re over 45, free testing kits are available. The test is simple, private, and easy to do — and if bowel cancer is found early, over 90% of cases can be successfully treated.
This is about being here for your mob, your kids, your community — and giving yourself the best chance to live a long, strong life.
Listen now — click play below.
Don’t Ignore the Signs — Bowel Cancer Awareness with Gerald Quigley
In this episode of Stars and Stories, MJ speaks with Gerald Quigley, pharmacist and Master Herbalist, about the importance of taking bowel cancer seriously.
Bowel Cancer Awareness with Aunty Jill Gallagher
In this powerful and deeply personal episode, Aunty Jill Gallagher joins MJ for a heartfelt conversation about bowel cancer — and why screening matters.
A proud survivor of bowel cancer herself, Aunty Jill opens up about her journey, the importance of early detection, and why we need to break the shame and stigma that still surrounds testing.
She reminds us:
• The test is simple, free, and can be done at home
• Early detection saves lives
• You’re not just doing it for yourself — you’re doing it for your family, your mob, and to keep our culture strong
Despite its simplicity, only 1 in 3 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are completing the test. Aunty Jill urges everyone to change that.
“Don't hesitate. Get it done. We need you to continue helping your family, helping your community, but also keeping our culture alive and strong.” — Aunty Jill Gallagher
